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The Story of Easter

Paul Winchester • April 3, 2025

History, Meaning, Bunnies, Eggs and... Food!

Easter is one of those times of year when everything seems to be bursting into life—daffodils are out, chocolate eggs appear in every shop window, and we’re suddenly craving roast lamb and hot cross buns. But have you ever stopped to wonder why we celebrate Easter the way we do? Where did it all come from? Why the eggs, the bunny, and the buns?



Let’s crack into the real meaning of Easter, the quirky traditions that surround it, and the delicious food that’s become part of the celebration — and why Easter weekend is the perfect time to gather with loved ones over a seasonal meal at The Tack Room in Newmarket.

The Real Reason Behind Easter

At its core, Easter is the most important celebration in the Christian calendar. It commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ three days after his crucifixion, as described in the New Testament. The resurrection symbolises hope, renewal, and new life — which explains why so many Easter traditions are tied to themes of rebirth.

Easter Sunday follows Holy Week, which includes:

•    Palm Sunday – Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem.
•    Maundy Thursday – The Last Supper.
•    Good Friday – Jesus' crucifixion.
•    Holy Saturday – The quiet day of waiting.
•    And finally, Easter Sunday, when Christians believe Jesus rose from the dead.

So, What’s with the Eggs?

Eggs have been associated with rebirth and fertility for millennia, long before Christianity. In pagan spring festivals, eggs symbolised the reawakening of nature after winter. As Christianity spread, the egg became a powerful metaphor for Christ’s emergence from the tomb — a shell cracked open into new life.

In medieval Europe, eggs were forbidden during Lent, so when Easter came around, people would celebrate with — you guessed it — lots of eggs! Over time, these eggs became decorated, dyed, and eventually replaced by the chocolate eggs we know and love today.

 And the Easter Bunny?


Like eggs, the Easter Bunny has pre-Christian roots. Rabbits and hares are ancient symbols of fertility and new life — thanks to their legendary reproductive talents! The Easter hare was first mentioned in 17th-century German writings as a creature that laid colourful eggs for children to find.


German immigrants brought the tradition to America, where the hare morphed into the more cuddly and approachable Easter Bunny. Over time, the bunny became central to Easter celebrations, often appearing in storybooks, chocolate form, and springtime decorations.

Easter Food: A Feast of Symbolism

Food plays a huge role in Easter — from religious traditions to seasonal cravings. And there’s no better place to enjoy an Easter Sunday meal than in a beautiful setting like The Tack Room, nestled in the heart of Newmarket.

Here’s how food and Easter go hand in hand:


Roast Lamb

Roast lamb is the traditional centrepiece of many Easter feasts. This goes back to Passover, the Jewish festival that Jesus was celebrating at the Last Supper. In Judaism, the lamb symbolises sacrifice. For Christians, it came to represent Jesus as the “Lamb of God”, sacrificed for the sins of the world. Plus, spring is lambing season — so it’s seasonal and symbolic.

At The Tack Room in Newmarket, you’ll often find seasonal menus that pay homage to tradition while celebrating fresh, local ingredients — perfect for an Easter Sunday lunch with family or friends.


Hot Cross Buns

These spiced, fruity buns marked with a white cross are traditionally eaten on Good Friday. The cross symbolises the crucifixion, and the spices represent the embalming of Jesus’s body. They were once considered so sacred that Queen Elizabeth I banned them on all days except Good Friday, Christmas and funerals!


Simnel Cake

A lighter fruitcake with layers of marzipan, Simnel Cake is linked to both Mothering Sunday and Easter. It’s often topped with 11 marzipan balls, representing the 12 apostles minus Judas. It’s a sweet nod to faith and tradition, and an ideal afternoon treat with tea — especially if you’re out for a springtime stroll in Newmarket and stop in for a slice.


Eggs and Chocolate

Of course, chocolate eggs have taken over much of Easter’s modern identity. Whether it’s Cadbury Creme Eggs, foil-wrapped minis, or deluxe hand-painted versions, they all symbolise new life and joy — and let’s be honest, they taste amazing.

A Celebration of Spring and Renewal


Easter’s timing is no accident. It’s closely tied to the spring equinox, when light starts to overcome darkness, and life begins to return after the long winter. Whether you’re religious or not, Easter often feels like a fresh start. It’s a time to gather with family, share good food, and maybe even hunt for a few colourful eggs in the garden.


If you’re looking to make your Easter weekend in Newmarket extra special, consider joining us at The Tack Room. With its unique setting within the NHRM and a menu full of fresh local produce, it’s the perfect place to celebrate renewal, family, and food.

Happy Easter from all of us at The Tack Room!


Whether you’re coming for Easter Sunday lunch, a relaxing long weekend brunch, or just a coffee and slice of Simnel cake — we’ll be here to welcome you.

BOOK NOW!

April Meal of the Month: Baked Camembert

By Paul Winchester • April 3, 2025
As the chill of early spring lingers and the evenings call for something indulgent, Baked Camembert takes centre stage as our Meal of the Month here at The Tack Room in Newmarket. Rich, gooey, and deeply comforting, it’s the perfect dish for sharing — whether you're joining us for a relaxed lunch or tucking into something warm and indulgent before your main. A Cosy Classic to Share There’s something wonderfully sociable about a whole baked Camembert — especially when it arrives bubbling and golden from the oven, accompanied by toasted sourdough and seasonal chutney. It’s a dish that invites you to slow down, tuck in, and enjoy every warm, melty mouthful.  At The Tack Room, we serve our baked Camembert with a touch of rosemary and garlic, alongside freshly toasted sourdough and a dollop of house-made chutney — perfect for sharing (or not).

Meal of the Month: Roast Sirloin of Beef with All the Trimmings

By Paul Winchester • March 7, 2025
As we step into March, there’s no better way to celebrate the season than with a classic roast sirloin of beef with all the trimmings. Whether you’re indulging in a hearty meal to beat the lingering chill or planning a special treat for Mother’s Day, this dish is the ultimate comfort food. At The Tack Room Newmarket, we serve our roast sirloin of beef with golden crispy roast potatoes, fluffy Yorkshire puddings, seasonal vegetables, and a rich red wine gravy—a meal designed for lingering conversations and full stomachs. If you're looking for the perfect way to spoil Mum this Mother’s Day book a table and let us take care of the cooking while you enjoy a relaxed, delicious meal together. Available every Sunday – but book ahead, as it always sells out fast!

The Tack Room Joins Newmarket Restaurant Week!

By Paul Winchester • March 7, 2025
Exciting news for food lovers! The team at The Tack Room is thrilled to take part in Newmarket Restaurant Week in partnership with Love Newmarket. From Monday 10th – Sunday 16th March, we’re serving up exclusive, limited-time menus at unbeatable prices—so this is your chance to sample our delicious dishes at a steal! Whether you're a long-time local, a racing enthusiast, or simply someone who loves great food in a unique setting, we invite you to join us. Our aim? To welcome as many guests as we can (without making our chefs panic!), show off what we do best, and hopefully see you return—again, and again... and again! 😋 Set within the grounds of the National Horse Racing Museum (NHRM) – and under the watchful eye of the legendary Frankel, we invite you to try our mouthwatering dishes crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Paul Winchester, Manager at The Tack Room, says: "Newmarket has an incredible variety of restaurants, and we’re proud to be a part of that. There’s no better time to visit than during Restaurant Week—whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth!"

The Ultimate Guide to Mother’s Day

By Paul Winchester • March 3, 2025
The Fascinating History of Mother’s Day Mother’s Day has a long and rich history that dates back centuries. The ancient Greeks and Romans celebrated maternal figures with grand festivals honouring goddesses like Rhea and Cybele. In medieval England, people observed Mothering Sunday, a religious tradition where families returned to their “mother church” and honoured their own mothers with gifts and tokens of appreciation. The modern version of Mother’s Day was established in the early 20th century by Anna Jarvis, an American activist who campaigned to create an official day to honour mothers. Her dedication paid off in 1914 when President Woodrow Wilson declared the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day in the U.S. Meanwhile, the UK continued its Mothering Sunday tradition, celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Lent. Ironically, Jarvis later became disillusioned with the holiday’s commercialisation, believing it had lost its heartfelt meaning. That’s why making Mother’s Day personal and special is so important—and what better way to do that than by treating your mum to an unforgettable meal at The Tack Room in Newmarket? Why Your Mum Deserves the Best This Mother’s Day Mothers are the ultimate multi-taskers. They juggle family, careers, and daily responsibilities while providing endless love and support. Think about it—who was there when you needed a hug, advice, or a delicious home-cooked meal? Mother’s Day is about celebrating the superhero in your life, and a great way to do that is by giving her a day of relaxation, appreciation, and indulgence. Instead of opting for last-minute gifts, make this Mother’s Day truly special with an exceptional dining experience at The Tack Room in Newmarket. Nestled in the heart of the National Horseracing Museum, The Tack Room is known for its locally sourced ingredients, expertly crafted dishes, and inviting atmosphere. How to Plan the Perfect Mother’s Day at The Tack Room on Sunday 30th March 2025 Looking for a unique way to celebrate? Here’s why The Tack Room in Newmarket is the perfect place for a Mother’s Day lunch: • Indulge in a delicious Sunday lunch – Treat your mum to a beautifully prepared meal featuring seasonal produce and locally sourced ingredients. • Explore the National Horseracing Museum – After lunch, take a stroll through the historic museum and discover the fascinating world of horse racing. • Relax in the charming courtyar d – If the weather is lovely, enjoy a leisurely drink in the picturesque courtyard, soaking in the ambiance. • Raise a toast to Mum – Celebrate with a glass of fine wine, prosecco, or champagne—because she deserves it! • Pop into the NHRM Shop - Buy Mum something to remember the day (preferably something with a horse on it 😊!) Book Your Mother’s Day Experience at The Tack Room If you want to give your mum a truly special Mother’s Day, booking a table at The Tack Room is a fantastic choice. With its warm hospitality, exquisite cuisine, and unique location, it offers the perfect setting to create unforgettable moments.

February Fun at The Tack Room

By Paul Winchester • February 4, 2025
Who Was St. Valentine? St. Valentine’s Day is more than just a day for love—it’s a tale woven with mystery, defiance, and devotion . The origins of this cherished celebration date back to 3rd-century Rome , where a priest named Valentine dared to challenge the mighty Emperor Claudius II .

The History of Burns Night and The Tack Room Celebration

By Paul Winchester • February 4, 2025
People often ask us, What is Burns Night? So, we thought it only fitting to share a little history about this cherished tradition and why we at The Tack Room love celebrating it with such enthusiasm. Every year on January 25th, Scots and poetry lovers around the world come together to honour Robert Burns, Scotland’s most celebrated poet and cultural icon. Born in 1759, Burns captured the soul of Scotland in his poetry—its people, its landscape, and its traditions—leaving behind an enduring legacy that continues to inspire. From the stirring lyrics of Auld Lang Syne to the dark, thrilling Tam o' Shanter, his works are deeply woven into Scottish heritage. The tradition of Burns Night began in 1801, when a group of his closest friends gathered on the anniversary of his death to pay tribute to his life and work. What started as an intimate memorial soon evolved into an annual Burns Supper, filled with theatrical rituals, hearty food, and, of course, generous drams of whisky. Today, this much-loved celebration is marked with passion across the globe.

January is Never Blue at The Tack Room

By Paul Winchester • January 29, 2025
But here at The Tack Room, we don’t do January blues. For us, it’s a month brimming with energy and plans. Hospitality isn’t for the faint-hearted, but we love it. Why? Because every time you step through our door s, it’s a chance for us to create something special—whether it’s a hearty meal with friends, a quiet coffee to recharge, or even a well-earned glass (or bottle!) of wine to unwind.

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